Hosteling in Scandinavia is very popular, so senior travelers to this part of Europe will definitely want to make a reservation in advance, especially during the busy summer season. During this process you can inquire if private rooms are available; and if you are staying in a dormitory room, be sure to check out number and type of beds in each room. Visitors to Copenhagen, will want to opt for one of the danhostels, which are part of Hosteling International. There are several HI options in the city including the brand new Copenhagen City Hostel, which is a 16-story high-rise hostel building. Many more danhostels are located throughout the countryside.
One of the joys of European travel is viewing old architecture that pre-dates the discovery of the Americas. Many castles, forts and houses are still standing that are more than 500 or even 1,000 years old. A few of these have been converted to hostels that provide dormitory housing and private rooms or even a restaurant and dining area for their guests. The Stahleck Castle in Bacharach, Germany and the Vuillermin Castle in Finale Marina, Italy have both been incorporated into successful hostel enterprises. A visit to one of these places will put you perched in a high-fortified overlook for the duration of your visit. Autumn is a great time of years to enjoy these mighty fortresses.
Although Germany has some hostel venues, which have age limits and are designed for a younger crowd, there are still many first-rate hostels that cater to travelers of all ages. The Mitte section of Berlin has a large choice of hostels that do not see the crowds that Copenhagen does. One place of note is the Circus Hostel, which has now expanded to include several hostels and a budget hotel, all located in thriving Berlin. These entrepreneurs help start the trend of adding special amenities, like a cafe, restaurants and bar to the hostel scene. Active seniors will enjoy staying at any one of these Berlin businesses, but again it is best to research your destination before you leave and then make a reservation in advance.
